On January 22, 2025, Lewis Hamilton, the legendary seven-time Formula 1 champion, embarked on a pivotal moment in his illustrious racing career by testing a Ferrari F1 car for the first time at the iconic Fiorano test track. The British driver, who turned 40 years old, expressed that this experience was “awe-inspiring” and one of the best feelings he has encountered throughout his extensive career. Amidst cold and damp conditions, Hamilton completed a total of 30 laps in a 2023 Ferrari F1 car, marking a significant milestone in his transition from Mercedes to Ferrari.
Hamilton described the moment of starting the car and driving through the garage door as exhilarating. The emotions he felt were reminiscent of his initial days testing a Formula 1 car nearly two decades ago. He stated, “When I started the car up and drove through that garage door, I had the biggest smile on my face.” His words captured the sense of excitement and nostalgia that this test brought forth, reiterating the passion Hamilton has for the sport.
The testing session at Fiorano allowed Hamilton to experience firsthand the fervent culture and passion surrounding Ferrari, noting that the energy of the team’s fans, known as the ‘tifosi’, is palpable. “But to now witness it firsthand as a Ferrari driver has been awe-inspiring,” he remarked, acknowledging the dedication of not only the Ferrari team but also the fans who support them unconditionally. He expressed gratitude for the warm reception he received during his brief stay in Maranello, the heart of Ferrari.
After Hamilton’s stint concluded around 11:00 AM local time, he passed the controls to his teammate, Charles Leclerc, who continued the day’s testing with an additional 14 laps. Frederic Vasseur, Ferrari’s team principal, emphasized the significance of welcoming a new driver, especially someone with Hamilton’s stature, reflecting on the emotional nature of the day. Vasseur mentioned, “Welcoming a new driver is always an important moment,” and highlighted that Charles’s perspective was also valuable as he prepares for another competitive season.
Hamilton’s testing day at Fiorano is part of his acclimatization with the Scuderia team and an opportunity to learn how the Ferrari power unit operates. This transition is critical for Hamilton, who has exclusively driven Mercedes engines throughout his 18-year career in Formula 1. Understanding the intricacies of Ferrari’s engine, which operates on a sophisticated energy recovery system, is vital for his successful integration into the new team. He is set to collaborate closely with his new race engineer, Riccardo Adami, who brings a wealth of experience having previously worked with drivers like Carlos Sainz and Sebastian Vettel.
As the first test was conducted behind closed doors, it attracted considerable attention. Fans gathered at Fiorano, eager for a glimpse of Hamilton’s first outing as a Ferrari driver. After completing his laps, Hamilton took the time to acknowledge the supporters waiting outside the track, with the loving presence of his mother, Carmen Larbalestier, lending a sense of family and nostalgia to the day.
Looking forward, Hamilton’s official public debut as a Ferrari driver is scheduled for February 18 at the launch of the upcoming F1 season in London. He will then participate in three days of official pre-season testing in Bahrain, starting February 26, before the season kicks off at the Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne from March 14-16.
Hamilton’s testing limitations, which permit him to cover a maximum of 1,000 kilometers in previous cars due to F1 regulations, don’t dampen his enthusiasm. He is poised for a new chapter with Ferrari, embracing the challenge ahead with the hope of adding more accolades to his storied career while being part of one of the most celebrated teams in Formula 1 history.
